Computing
“Whether you want to uncover the secrets of the universe, or you want to pursue a career in the 21st century, basic computer programming is an essential skill to learn.”
~Professor Stephen Hawking
Computing Intent
Computing skills are an important factor in allowing children to be confident, creative and independent learners. The intent of our computing curriculum is to prepare our children for a rapidly developing digital world and to equip children to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world. Our computing curriculum follows the Purple Mash scheme of work and offers opportunities for children to: understand the basic principles and concepts of computer science, practise creating and writing computer programs, solving problems as they arise, evaluate and apply information technology to solve problems, be responsible, competent, confident and creative users of information technology including using word processing, presentation and spread-sheet tools.
Computing has deep links with many other areas of the curriculum and it is our intention that children have opportunities to explore, practice and apply the skills learnt in discrete computing lessons to other subjects.
An integral part of our computing curriculum is online safety. Each year group participates in lessons on internet safety and this is enhanced by everyone taking part in Safer Internet Day in February of each year and through displays around the school.
By the time they leave Beanfield, children will have gained key knowledge and skills in the three main areas of the computing curriculum: computer science (programming and understanding how digital systems work), information technology (using computer systems to store, retrieve and send information) and digital literacy (evaluating digital content and using technology safely and respectfully). The objectives within each strand support the development of learning across the key stages, ensuring a solid grounding for future learning and beyond.
Computing Implementation
Computing is taught in discrete lessons using the Purple Mash scheme of work, with opportunities to embed these skills through other areas of the curriculum.
The children have access to hardware (laptops, desktop computers, Learn Pad tablets, cameras and Beebots) throughout the week.
